Comcast Grants $1M to Transform The Arc’s Data, Tech Training, and Spanish Education Resources
WASHINGTON, June 11, 2024 (3BL Media): The Arc of the United States and Comcast NBCUniversal have announced a significant expansion of their longstanding partnership aimed at creating more equity and opportunity for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Comcast is providing a $1 million grant over two years to modernize The Arc’s data infrastructure, enhance its digital literacy programs, and provide special education advocacy to Spanish-speaking families. This investment is part of Project UP, Comcast’s $1 billion commitment to advancing digital equity.
Robust data is the foundation for driving meaningful change. This new funding will enable the development of a centralized data system across The Arc’s nearly 600 chapters. The system will track vital services, capture the scope of The Arc’s collective impact, and reveal insights to better support the IDD community. The benefits extend to all stakeholders, with national offices able to provide better support, chapters learning best practices, and families relying on stronger advocacy.
Katy Neas, CEO of The Arc of the United States, emphasized the power of data in achieving an inclusive society. She noted, “This grant allows us to wield our collective strength across our nearly 600 chapters to more strategically uplift millions of people with disabilities across America.”
Comcast has also supported The Arc’s initiatives to make resources accessible to Hispanic communities. In 2023, The ArcSchool Special Education Advocacy Curriculum was translated into Spanish and launched in early 2024. The new grant includes targeted outreach to Hispanic communities through various means, including Spanish-language webinars and collaboration with Spanish-speaking Special Education Advocates. Subgrants will be provided to chapters in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Texas, and Virginia, benefiting 150 Spanish-speaking families.
“For too long students with disabilities have faced numerous barriers to their right to a free appropriate public education,” Neas said. “Our partnership with Comcast is breaking down those barriers, ensuring students get the education they need.”
Lastly, the Comcast grant will support The Arc’s Tech Coaching Centers, which offer customized digital skills training to people with IDD. The training will be extended to caregivers and family members across ten sites in various states, better integrating technology into daily life. Since 2014, Comcast has empowered over 2,500 individuals through these centers, advancing outcomes in employment, health, and education.
Dalila Wilson-Scott, EVP and Chief Diversity Officer of Comcast Corporation, highlighted the importance of technology in bridging opportunities and independence. “We are proud to partner with The Arc to advance digital access and equity for people with disabilities.”
Source: Comcast Grants $1M to Transform The Arc’s Data, Tech Training, and Spanish Education Resources.
